About Bronx G.E.M.S
Our Mission
Bronx G.E.M.S. (Girls Empowered to Motivate and Succeed) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization proudly serving the Bronx, New York, with a commitment to empowering young girls ages 3 to 18. Our mission is rooted in creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where girls are encouraged to explore their talents, build confidence, and develop the skills necessary to reach their fullest potential. We believe every girl deserves access to positive role models, meaningful opportunities, and a supportive community that champions their growth. We are aligned with the Maximus Foundation goal of empowering community growth and resilience by supporting local leaders that help keep neighborhoods strong and connected.
Giving Back
Bronx GEMS has partnered with the Sotomayor Community Center and the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). Our partnership allowed participants to serve in food pantries, volunteer in community events such as parades, street clean-ups, and competitions. Our participants were able to gain community service hours and learn the importance of giving back to the community in which they live. Bronx GEMS has performed and volunteered at many events sponsored by Vanessa Gibson, the Bronx Borough President. Such events include Back to School Drives, Health and Literacy Tabling, and the Bronx Day Parade.
Our Team
We are proud to be a part of the our community. Our grand opening in 2023 was a success as we opened our doors to the community.
We intentionally cultivated a culture where our gems feel seen, valued, and respected, allowing them to develop a strong sense of identity and belonging. We are doing the work to build and strengthen the place we all call home.
Meet the gems coaches
Director Lavii
Director Lavii
Director Lavii
My name is Laura "Lavii" Okafor. I am one of the co-founders and directors of the Bronx GEMS. I have a passion for teaching and youth empowerment. I received my Bachelor's and Master's in Education from Mercy College. I am a proud mom of two boys and a Certified Head Pre-Kindergarten Teacher. Creatively, I have experience in step from the elementary level to the college level. I enjoy interacting with all levels of the GEMS and helping to carry out the mission of sisterhood.
Director Tee
Director Lavii
Director Lavii
My name Tunisia Fields and everyone call me Coach Tee. I am a co-founder, director, and choreographer for the Bronx Gems. I combine my passion for the performing arts with commitment to community service. Growing up in the Bronx, I developed a love for dance and performed both competitively and non-competitively. My experience includes stepping in high school and cheerleading in middle school and college. With a strong dedication to mentoring youth, I seek to inspire the next generation through the arts, fostering creativity and resilience within my community.
Director Marcey
Director Lavii
Director Marcey
My name Marcey Brooks and I am a co-founder, director, and choreographer for the Bronx Gems. I have over 18 years of experience working for Administration for Children Services (ACS). Along with working in Mosholu Montefiore Community Center and PS. 9, I received my Master's degree in criminal justice. My love and passion for dance happened in middle school and high school as I was a former cheerleader for DeWitt Clinton- alongside Coach Shantel. As a teenager, teaching dance in the PAL created a path to greatness.
I am so blessed to be able to share my goals and dreams with the youth, helping to shape lives in a meaningful way.
Coach Jazmin
Coach Shantel
Director Marcey
My name is Jazmin Rivera (Coach Jaz), I’m from the Bronx (yerrr) where I grew a passion for step and dance at the early age of 9 years old. When I was 11, I joined a well known step team called “Teens In Motion” where I actually got to exercise my passion for what literally made me feel safe. Step and dance saved my life as a child. Being a part of a family outside of my family with peers who shared a common interest was something that always stuck with me. As an adult with children, I was a team mom for my sons football team for 4 years and I met some really cool young men and dedicated parents. My goal is to help build confidence, implement discipline for structure, stress that dance is an art form and sisterhood is something that can last forever. I’m all about the art but more for the youth.
Coach Shantel
Coach Shantel
Coach Shantel
My name is Coach Shantel and I am certified by New York State Education Department in Childhood Education, Grades 1-6 and Students with Disabilities, Grades 1-6. I am also certified in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention for Schools and 4Rs curriculum which engages the imagination and creativity of children to help develop critical skills including empathy, community building, and conflict resolution.
I was a cheerleader throughout Junior High and High school (DeWitt Clinton) and worked as a Cheerleading Coach for John Phillip Sousa Jr. High School, P.S.196, and the North Bronx Cowboys.
Parent Coordinator Zalika
Parent Coordinator Zalika
Parent Coordinator Zalika
Hey guys, I’m Zalika-but when it comes to the Bronx G.E.M.S everyone calls me Coach Zee. I was born and raised in the Bronx, although I have spent a few years down south, where I found a love in music. From middle school to freshman year of High School, I was a part of the the concert band, jazz band, and marching band playing 1st chair clarinet. After 9th grade I moved back to the good ole Bronx and went to In-tech Academy. During that time I was taking African dance classes and dancing in my church dance ministry “Warriors for Christ”. When it was time for college I went on to try out step. I became a member of the Buffalo State Step Team- “Step Expressions”. Trying all these different dance forms helped me to express myself in a time when I really needed it and it gave me skills that I would not have had without dance. These days, I teach preschoolers where I’m able to come up with the best graduation performances, whether it be a dance number, fashion show, or skit. Self expression comes in many forms but dancing has always been a big one for me. I’m so glad I will be able to combine my love for dance and teaching as a coach of the Bronx G.E.M.S
Secretary Renee
Parent Coordinator Zalika
Parent Coordinator Zalika
My name is Reninnea Brown (Renee) raised in the Bronx, New York and currently reside in Mount Vernon, New York for the past twelve years. My desire to become a guidance counselor for the youth has led me into the role of a Paraprofessional for the New York Department of Education where I teach and guide students in grades 3K to 5th grade. I am currently continuing my studies in Liberal Arts. I’m a parent of two daughters who share a passion for dance. I became the secretary of the Bronx GEMS highlighting my strength of multitasking, keeping track of deadlines, and maintaining a filing system. As my passion follows the mission to empower the youth, I strive to service the community of the south Bronx.
Assistant Nakisha
Parent Coordinator Zalika
Assistant Nakisha
My name is Nakisha. I started out as a mom and transitioned into the role of coach because I believe in the vision of the Bronx Gems for our youth. I have a background in understanding how the body moves and activity analysis as an occupational therapist. I have worked as an Occupational Therapist for 11 years, five of which have been children 5 -14 years of age with autism and other disabilities. In addition, I love the art of dance and giving back to my community.
Gems Madness
Our Story
Gems Madness was founded in the fall of 2023. A group of Gems who wanted to create a community where dance enthusiasts could find everything they need to succeed. Our team is made up of minis, juniors, and seniors who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experience with others. Our goal is to help every Gem reach their full potential. We are committed to providing high-quality of training and resources to support athletes at every level.
Juniors & Seniors
Meet our Juniros and Seniors who have build an everlasting bond. Developing their skills while conditioning, training and receiving tumbling lessons. They have been competing with each other since 2024. Competitions like "Battle of the Apple" and "Turkey Day", and traveling out of the state to compete with the best of the best.
Minis
Meet our Minis who have taken off with their talent in such a classy way. They are little but they are mighty and powerful. They have worked together for over 14 months developing their skills and confidence.
New Staff
Kissena Long
Bronx Gems welcomes our new Gem Mom Kissena. She is the mother of Nyla Long who is a Sapphire. Kissena has shown her dedication to our program while showing she can be reliable and dependable. We believe that Kissena adds positivity and a voice for our parents.
Upcoming Events
Join us for upcoming events, from community gatherings to special events. We can't wait to see you there.
Back To School Event
Donations Needed!
Date; Saturday August 29th
Black School Shoes
School Supplies
Bronx Gems rental space
We are opening up our studio to share our lovely space with you.
Email us if you are interested in rental hours.
7 Days a week!
Mirrors and LED Lights
Hours: Mon-Friday 4pm-6pm
Tripod and Stereo Usage
Saturday 4pm-Until
Sundays: Open Availability
Mats and Tumbling Equipment
